Reaction to death of Oscar de la Renta

Reaction to the death late Monday of iconic designer Oscar de la Renta:

"America has lost a brilliant, enduring talent and a true gentleman. Oscar was a fashion legend but he was also my friend for nearly fifty years. I admired him greatly as a kind, gracious individual with a generous spirit who brought beauty and elegance to everything he touched." — Former first lady Nancy Reagan, in a statement.

___

"For me he was not only a great designer, he was my friend. He was the greatest believer that life is beautiful. ... With his lovely last collection he told us that, until the end. I am devastated and in the meantime I know that he decided to stop fighting because life was not beautiful anymore." — Designer Valentino Garavani, in a statement.

___

"Knowing that sadly none of us will have more time with the beloved and resplendent Oscar de la Renta only enhances my exuberant appreciation of the time he gave, the talent he shared and the friendship he allowed." — Actress Sarah Jessica Parker, in a statement.

"Oscar as he was a true mentor for me. It was always inspiring to see how he looked at a fabric or draped a garment to further his designs. Oscar taught me how to understand color and fit a dress. He always made me feel very included. There was a magic about the way he lived." — Designer Francisco Costa, women's creative director for Calvin Klein Collection, in a statement.

___

"Mr. de la Renta was one of America's greatest designers and he was an inspiration to the entire industry. His exceptional vision, outstanding integrity and warm character will be immensely missed by everyone who knew him." — Designer Zac Posen, in a statement.

___

"Oscar de La Renta had a unique vision of elegance. His legacy will always be remembered." — Designer Elie Saab, in a statement.

___

"The beauty of those clothes, I think they really define sort of American style. ... It's a feminine but clean, strong line — just beautiful, beautiful dresses." — Actress Tina Fey, speaking at the Elle magazine event.

___

"Oscar de la Renta had the ability to stay relevant in the fashion world by making what he calls 'a pretty dress'. Not many people can do that season after season and in his case 50 years. It is extraordinarily impressive and what has made him a legend." — Designer Tadashi Shoji, in a statement.

___

"Oscar was never afraid to speak his mind or share his point of view — whether that be on the runway or on the written page. He was a pillar of New York fashion and will be sorely missed." — Model Coco Rocha, via WhoSay.